The Institute for Emerging Issues (IEI) is a non-partisan public policy organization that exists to enhance North Carolina's long-term prosperity.

The Forum is an annual, two-day gathering of international, national and statewide thought leaders and stakeholders who discuss challenges and opportunities for North Carolina.

A defining feature of the Forum is participants' collaborative effort to build consensus around specific recommendations for further collective action.

The first annual Emerging Issues Forum took place on January 8, 1986 at the McKimmon Center in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Speakers and participants included Chancellor Bruce Poulton, Governor Jim Hunt, NC State Student Body President Jay Everette, John A.